The Gospels

The first four books of the New Testament — Matthew, Mark, Luke and John — are commonly known as "the Gospels." These books explain the life and ministry of Jesus, and are the basis for most of the distinctive doctrines of Christianity.

Course Goals:

Introduce viewers to the background and primary message of the Gospels.

Summarize the structure, content, original meaning and modern application of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

The persecution of Christians was on Mark's mind as he wrote the second Gospel. Mark told the story of Jesus' life in ways that strengthened the faith of early Christians and encouraged them to persevere through suffering.

The persecution of Christians was on Mark's mind as he wrote the second Gospel. Mark told the story of Jesus' life in ways that strengthened the faith of early Christians and encouraged them to persevere through suffering.

John wrote the fourth gospel to assure persecuted Jewish believers that Jesus was the fulfillment of God's ancient promises to the Jews that Jesus really is the Christ, the Son of God. John wanted to make sure that they would remain faithful to Jesus and enjoy abundant life in him.

John wrote the fourth gospel to assure persecuted Jewish believers that Jesus was the fulfillment of God's ancient promises to the Jews that Jesus really is the Christ, the Son of God. John wanted to make sure that they would remain faithful to Jesus and enjoy abundant life in him.